This project involved the refurbishment of two 19th-century buildings, located near the famous Palais Longchamp, into a luxurious hotel and conference centre.
Built in 1860 by Barbaroux de Mégis as his mansion and business headquarters, these properties were subsequently purchased by Sir Fournier who added most of the Neo-Renaissance inspired features that can be seen today. Later used as offices, these buildings remained largely vacant until its current landlord, Compagnie Vauban, purchased them in 2005.
Spread across 3,000 sqm, this characterful venue is now being rented by Chateauform’ and features 51 bedrooms, ten meeting rooms, five dining rooms, six lounges, five entertainment rooms, a spa, cocktail bar and professional kitchen.
We were appointed by our client, Compagnie Vauban, in 2016 and the project took a total of four years to complete. This is largely due to the significant amount of restoration involved in retaining the original architectural features – many of which were inspired by the Rococo and Gothic eras. This included the restoration of cornicing, fireplaces, balustrades and wooden doors and flooring.
We also helped to preserve much of the original metalwork including a staircase which we repurposed into a mezzanine bedroom, as well as a beautiful conservatory in the central courtyard.
The most challenging part of this project was recovering the artwork on the ceilings and walls, as this had previously been hidden under a coat of white paint. Prior to this, we conducted an extensive survey to ensure the fire resistance of the existing structure and materials.
As well as raising the floors and carrying out major roof modifications, we also helped to connect the two buildings via an underground corridor.
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Photographs © Cyril Folliot
Key contacts:
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Xavier Manera
Director
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Rémi Pascal
Senior associate
3000
sqm
5
floors
Marseille
location